Shark's fin soup ban in Penang state functions

GEORGE TOWN: The Penang state government has banned shark's fin soup at official functions with immediate effect.

The state exco has passed a resolution on 'No shark's fin soup for all official functions' and notices will be sent to all state government agencies not to include the delicacy in the menu at any state hosted events.

The move, however, will not affect events held by the private sector.

State Welfare, Caring Society and Environment Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh said the private companies would, however be encouraged not to serve the dish if possible.

He said the resolution was made in support of the World Wildlife Federation's (WWF) Save Our Seafood campaign.

"Malaysia is listed in the top 20 shark catching countries by the WWF from 2002 to 2011," said Phee after his speech during the prize giving ceremony for the Green Idol public speaking contest that was held in conjunction with the Penang Green Carnival 2015 at 1st Avenue Mall yesterday.

Phee, who is also the vice-president of the Penang Green Council, said since 2013, the state had made it a practice not to serve shark's fin soup at state functions. 

"Last year, the state exco had signed a pledge in support of a resolution to ban the dish at official functions, and it was officially passed this year," he added.